About the Chamber

Mission Statement

The mission of the Nakusp & District Chamber of Commerce is to maintain a role of leadership and advocacy in the Nakusp and District business community, while promoting and supporting economic development and tourism in partnership with community stakeholders.

Background

The Nakusp & District Chamber of Commerce was chartered under the Board of Trade Act in Canada on January 29, 1985 and is effectively “owned” by its member businesses. The Chamber is governed by its Board of Directors who are elected from among the membership and represent all sectors of our region.

In 1986 the Ministry of Tourism and the BC Chamber of Commerce joined a partnership to create a Visitor Centre network, and of the 100 plus full status community Visitor Centres in BC, about half are operated by Chambers of Commerce.

With business and community support, the Chamber established the Nakusp Visitor Information Centre in 1986. The Chamber leased the land from the Village of Nakusp, and the original building was donated to the Chamber of Commerce and transported to the current site, located at 92 – 6th Avenue NW. A paddlewheel was then constructed and a recovered steam whistle was installed. The Visitor Centre was substantially renovated in 2003, with significant contributions from fundraising, donations and grants.

Funding

The Visitor Centre operates in part, under a Fee for Service contract basis with Destination British Columbia, and the Village of Nakusp. In addition, the Chamber subsidizes the Visitor Centre operational costs, to ensure year-round operations.

Destination Marketing

Partner with community stakeholders to develop an official visitor guide which meets standards as specified by the Nakusp and Arrow Lakes Tourism Plan, and the Ministry of Jobs, Tourism and Innovation.